Bobby Martinez Interview: Making the Uncut

This interview takes place as Bobby and his wife drive to LA to finalize his new clothing contract.

TL: Bobby, you don’t do too many interviews except at contests so It’s cool you agreed to this; I just think its important that people really know what you’re feeling right now and where you stand. So, lets basically have a conversation.”

BM: Yeah, for sure Trav Lee, I’m ready. Ask me whatever you want.
TL: So, it sounds like you just found a major sponsor, FTW or something? Can you elaborate on that a bit?

BM: Yes, I did! FTW is a new company that Bobby Vaughn from Von Dutch and a couple other guys started. It’s owned by Icer Brands and is based in NYC (Icer Brands owns Sean John, Roca Wear and Applebottom Jeans)

TL: Dare I ask what FTW stands for? I can probably guess…

BM: Don’t judge a book by its cover! It really depends on how you want to take it. The world is a screwed up place, right?, kids get shot in schoolyards and everything else but the owners’ perception isn’t just that. I know they are doing some stuff for MMA and that slogan is “Fight To Win.” Also, they are doing some things in regards to religion where it stands for “Follow The Word.” Then they have a cool project to benefit the families of the Navy Seals and Seal Team 6, “Fight Terrorism Worldwide.” So it really depends on how you want to take it, but yes the world is a messed up place. It can mean “F” the world, too, if that’s how you want to look at it.

TL: So, are you happy with the deal? You seemed a bit disillusioned with not being able to find a sponsor.

BM: I am so happy with it. They like me for what and who I am. I can be myself. They think I am perfect for the brand. I don’t have to kiss anyone’s ass either so it’s a perfect fit. I can travel, do trips; Its not about contest results its more about a lifestyle

TL: You missed the J-Bay event; do you plan on doing Tahiti?

BM: No, I am not going to do the Chopes event. I love Tahiti and that wave; I just don’t like being there for an event with everyone there.

TL: Where do you actually stand in regards to the tour and its contests?

BM: Yeah, I am not too concerned about the contests. I’m not going to go to Tahiti anymore.

TL: But you won there twice and you stand a good chance to win a good amount of money. Are you seriously not going?

BM: It’s not about the money, I had big contracts and was making great money but I wasn’t happy. I would rather just be home and surf around here.

TL: So is it the new tour that has you fired up?

BM: Yes. I just don’t agree with the halfway cut. Not only do those surfers that come on at the halfway point have no chance of winning a world title, which is pointless, but they barely get a taste of it and then they will probably fall right off it. Everyone deserves a whole year. I think it takes at least a year to really figure it out.

TL: Are there other reasons?

BM: Oh yeah, I have a bunch. They said cutting it down to 32 means it would only take 3 days to run an event but I think it still takes 4 days anyway now. I think we need to be judged within our own ranks. You have an A+ tour(WCT) and you have a B+ tour (WQS). The A+ guys lose to the best guys in the world. Take Freddy P and myself for example, we lose to the best and aren’t re-qualifying as of now, but other surfers that aren’t on the WCT tour are surfing against “QS guys and are qualifying. I just think they should surf against themselves, keep it separate and the top guys get to come on tour. This year I’ve lost to Taj and Jordy, some of the best guys in the world and that’s fine if I don’t re-qualify. I can live with that, but who do they lose to? The One World ranking is just wrong. That’s why I hate it.

TL: Essentially though, it’s you the surfers (via the surfers’ reps) that approved this tour change. The ASP doesn’t change the rules with out your guys’ vote. Do you think the surfer’s reps speak or are properly representing the surfers on the tour as a whole?

BM: They go to the board meetings and say that they do — but they don’t! They don’t speak for me that’s for sure. They speak for themselves. I’ve never got an email from anyone and I’ve gone to meetings and voiced my opinion before, but look, at the end of the day it is a majority vote. So nothing is going to happen unless there is enough of us that want it to change. It’s just too much politics. At least that’s what I see from the inside looking out.

TL: Why do you think they want to do it this way?

BM: They think it will help grow the sport but I disagree. People don’t care about the One World tour; they don’t even understand it. They should rate the “QS guys on their tour and the “CT on theirs — it’s a different level and shouldn’t be combined. That’s just my feeling anyway.

TL: Do you have anything against the people that run the ASP tour?

BM: No, I don’t talk to anyone there except for Renato Hickel. I love Renato. He is super cool and has always treated me right. I just don’t like it as a whole; I don’t like the direction they are going.

TL: Will you go to the Quik NY event?

BM: Yes, my new sponsor is based out there and so I will go to support them and go out with a bang.

TL: So, you realize NY will be your last event?

BM: Yes, I really don’t want to be part of the tour anymore unless it changes.

TL: So has all of this taken a toll on you mentally?

BM: Yeah, the whole thought of it just makes me want to go surfing by myself and just get away from it all. If I stay around that scene, well, let’s just say it won’t be pretty.

TL: You don’t hate surfing do you?

BM: No, it’s been both a blessing and a curse to me. It brought me together with my wife and given me the lifestyle I have now, but I just hate the new tour and whole industry side of it and a quite a few people in it. It’s kind of a catch 22. What I have, I love, and I wouldn’t have gotten without surfing. But, the other stuff I could do without.

TL: Correct me if I’m wrong but for the last couple of years you have seemed more negative and unhappy than I remember you. Was there a realization that made you aware of this and brought you to this point?

BM: Yeah, I knew I wasn’t happy. This year, after the Snapper event in Australia, I met a guy named Gavin Topp. He brought things to reality for me. I don’t know what it was about him that made me listen, but he helped me figure out how and why I was so unhappy. He really got through to me. If I didn’t get his help I wouldn’t have ever seen things from the perspective I do now.

TL: You are back on Channel Islands boards now, kind of a full circle… Does that feel right?

BM: Yes, I was in a difficult place when I left but it feels good to get back and be around the people I am now.

TL: Your equipment feels good then?

BM: My boards feel better than they ever have and my heat at Bells or Winkipop this year showed me I can still do great. I am very happy to be back where I am at.

TL: Generally speaking, would you say you are happy now with where your life is at?

BM: Yes, I am happy now. I just need to get out of this contest mode. I wear my heart on my sleeve and pretty soon I am going to burst on this tour. So, when I am done I will be happy.

TL: What are you looking forward to? What else do you love to do besides surf?

BM: I love my wife, Cleo, my dog and I love to box and go to the gym. I would really like to start a family and have a home life. I’ve literally been traveling since I was 15 years old.

TL: I know a question everyone is dying to know is in regards to your Tweets. They seem so negative and angry. Some people come into the office here and say “Did you see Bobby’s tweets? Has he lost it?” What’s behind those?

BM: Hmmm, well it’s negative but in a positive way, if that makes sense. I’m unhappy with the tour and this is the only means I have to voice my opinion. The same stuff I say on Twitter I will say to anyone’s face personally. Other surfers are also unhappy with the direction of the tour, they tell me so. It’s bullshit and if I have to be the voice then I will.

TL: Some of your Tweets are pretty vulgar with a lot of cussing. What do you have to say to the parents that disapprove of this for their kids that may follow you?

BM: They don’t have to let them follow me. This is reality. Their kids are going to grow up and become their own person, just as I have.

TL: Are you saying that’s just you… take it or leave it?

BM: If I wanted to be like everyone else and please them all I would bleach my hair blonde, wear tight skinny jeans and put in blue contacts and become a “yes” man. I am just trying to make a living and reach my goals. It’s the real world; people aren’t perfect and proper wherever you go!

TL: Haaa

BM: I mean, I hear my 3 year-old nephew cuss all the time, he hears it from every one he is around not just me. That’s just us I guess — we are who we are.

Cleo, Bobby’s wife who has been noticeably quiet throughout the entire interview must break her silence… This is killing her and she must interject.

Excuse me,he is doing exactly what he says he hates. He hates the “industry side” yet is surfing the NYC event only because that’s where his sponsor is based.? Sellout.He claims to sell a “lifestyle” … uh,,, sellout. It’s simple ,If you are a wct surfer and you don’t want to be one anymore, don’t be . Is it necessary to hear all this whining disguised as an interveiw ? The angry tweet thing is ridiculous.What grown man friggen “tweets” anyway??!!I gather he has deeper issues. He and FP in the wake of his jbay loss have set a great example for the kids. ” how to be a sore loser, and how to quit when things don’t go your way. ” way to go ,ladies

I met Bobby when he was 14 or 15 in Hawaii. He came to my place when my (sorry to say) low-life hawaiian rommate and team manager for T&C brought him in. He seemed like a humble nice kid and surfed with a lot of power for his age. I felt he had a great future and it’s unfortunate to see him going down the drain. He may say he’s happy but it’s not hard to see he’s confused, lost and a bit messed up by the turns his life has taken.

I hope he realizes the opportunities he still has as a pro surfer on the Dream tour. If he doesn’t like politics, how would he fare in the real world as opposed to the Dream tour? Bobby needs to grow up, take a real job for a little while, or realize the existential anxiety that comes from doing nothing sitting at home.

Kelly and Taylor have understood that. They don’t take anything for granted and are mature enough not to bitch and whine and quit. Bobby should take some advice from TK or KS and clear his mind of all the crap he occasionally spits out in his tweets. Then we might see him coming back with a second and more brilliant career.

Henny first off you are an idiot. What grown man tweets? Did I just read that? What grown man tweets? Half the goddamn world tweets buddy. Wall Street tweets, every friggin newspaper in the world tweets, the president pays some underling twit six figures to tweet, the Dalai Lama tweets, Kelly friggin Slater tweets. What grown man tweets? Open your eyes buddy, you remind me of that Geico commercial where those two guys live under rocks.

As for Bobby, don’t undermine him like he’s doing something wrong. He’s saying what he really feels instead of shutting up and remaining a pawn to the show like everyone else. I guess all you damn knuckleheads had to wait for the ASP to mis-crown Kelly Slater before your dense ass heads started comprehending the validity of what Bobby was trying to say. And as if that still didn’t get the point across I guess it took Brody to realize what a dysfunctional corporation he was running so he had to go run away like a little girl with her panties in a bunch. Oh yeah, did that fog clear yet you ASP brown nosers? Oh wait, now Bobby holds validity with everyone because the ASP fucked up in the media spotlight? Fuck that. I always had his back from day 1, and all you corpo junkies hopped on the ASP wagon till it drove right off the cliff, and battered Bobby for no other reason than jealousy.

I grind a day job 8am-5pm, 5 days a week, and study for graduate school 5pm-2am, 5 days a week I even study 4-6 hours on Sundays. I put in 96 hour weeks right now, and I firmly support Bobby, so all you idiots can blow me. You’re just all a bunch of jealous bishes patronizing Bobby out of spitefulness, because you will never be able to surf as well as Bobby, envy his sheer talent, and covet the lifestyle he has lived for years. Talk about a bunch of whiners. NEWSFLASH: YOUR OPINION DOES NOT MATTER TO ANYONE.

And let me tell your stupid asses about maturity. Maturity is a completely different concept than conformity. You think maturity is the ability to turn a blind eye to things that are wrong or that you dont agree with in fear of the corporate machine? Because if you ask me thats a bunch of gutless insincere bullshit. And gutless insincerity is pretty much the definition of poor character, lack of integrity, and immaturity. Henny why dont you and your band of comic book readers shut the hell up because you have no idea what youre talking about. And all you other morons siding with the ASP and talking badly about Bobby, well, suck it.

Rob , your a f-ing legend , bobby was one of two goofy footers on the asp tour of about what 30 natural footers on n , they wouldnt even get a look in , instead of criticising have a look at what his saying he wouldnt be saying it for no reason if the tour wasnt f-ked.

Fabulous interview ! Thank you . So glad Bobby is following his Heart , will miss so much seeing him in the Water but his happiness comes first. Here’s to less angry Tweets and the patter of tiny feet soon, all the best .Aloha Xx

such a sick interview. People always bullshit and say they’re happy traveling all the time and being apart of the industry. He is basically one of the few surfers out there that is real and doesn’t just try to play by the rules to get by. Who wants to kiss ass for sponsorships? That’s disgusting and weak. His surfing should be enough but unfortunately, the surf industry is no different. It’s run by money-grubbers just like every other industry out there. He isn’t willing to sellout for cash, fame, ect. I have so much respect for him as a surfer and human being, in general.

Not me! I feel just the opposite, he would not last one week at a “real” job, and would probably quit on that too. Do you honestly think his sponsor is just going to let him surf? They are already making him go surf a contest in NY. No disrespect to NY, but what “real” surfer would rather surf NY than J-Bay or Tahiti. Sounds to me like he is already selling out.

I gotta say coming from SB i fricken love Bobby and his surfing, but it annoys me when people (surfers) complain about the “Industry” and “keeping it real” by going against the so-called grain. Dude, you get paid to surf. If there was no money involved then there would be no incentive for for anyone to put up $ for events and what not; that also applies to getting paid to travel and surf. You have a SPONSOR willing to pay for your expenses just so they can say you represent them which will in turn bring in revenues. We all pay it to the man one way or another and thats just the way it is. I grind Monday-Saturday 9-6pm and squeeze in a fricken dawn patrol whenever possible. Be thankful youre healthy and talented enough for anyone, whether it be a large corporate company or a small Mom-&-Pop Co., to want to pay for you to surf.

If Bobby reckons he is so much better than the surfers on the qs the apparently don’t deserve to qualify, why doesn’t he do a few qs events, win them, and gain the points needed to stay on tour! None of what he is saying makes sense.

One day this guy will have to go out and get a real job, then he will understand how good he had it and all this moaning about surfing around the world and earning good money will seem like a different life. It annoyes me to here when lucky people who have what most people would dream to have and they feel like they are the ones who have it hard. Bobby you lost it and I think one day you will relise this.

I have been constantly traveling for a living for many years now, and now that I have to/want to raise a family, I hate the fact that I have to keep traveling because of my job (even though it requires a lot of surfing) My “dream” as of now, is to be able to come home to my family every night. I can relate to what Bobby is talking about. And just like you wrote to Bobby, you might not know how good you have it either.

So you have to travel and surf for a living but you want to be able to raise a family and come home every night? While I understand every job has it’s drawbacks, maybe traveling constantly for many years has made you forget exactly how almost everyone else makes a living. If being home with your family is so important to you – and that is certainly respectable, maybe you should make changes so that can happen. Then someone else who would love to do what you do and has no problems with the constant travel, could get that chance. Home Depot is always hiring.

The one ranking system is a good thing, guys that are surfing well will have their chance faster, and for the public that is a great thing. I wont have to wait for 2012 to see Medina on the tour nor wait to 2013 to see John John and Kolohe. And I’m pretty sure once they join the tour they won’t “probably fall right off it”.

I think Bobby is not looking at the Prime events as he should. Prime events give a lot of points and that’s were the QS and CT guys meet, surf together and dispute the points to be on the top, owning or holding a spot on a CT event. And for the public that is also great because not only we get to see lots of top surfers on prime events but we get to see these top surfers going for broke to get the points not just cruising.

I’m not saying the format is perfect, I’m just pointing out what I think is good about it

What other more mainstream surfing companies have failed to understand, is that the “bad boy” image sells. Congrats to Bobby and FTW for recognizing the void. Why do so many companies forget what Lost did in the late 90s with Ward and Lopez. They captured an entire generation/segment of kids frothing on the carefree surfing lifestyle with a couple of videos. Interpretation for you, INCREASED sales.

The only problem is that this is not the 90’s anymore. Correct me if I am wrong, but isn’t Cory still surfing in certain events? and Ward is just a punk who gets has gotten into trouble with the law, so he’s probably not a very good example.

hey Bobby, what charities do you contribute to? what are you doing to give-back? doing anything to get more Latinos into surfing in CA? this interview is just more of the same trendy “over it itis” that the top pro surfers are spewing these days…

The ASP Responds:
Well, weâ€™re obviously disappointed that it looks like Bobby wonâ€™t be on tour much longer. I think heâ€™s universally regarded as one of the most technically proficient surfers on the planet. People often comment on the strength of his backhand (which is well warranted), but he has also scalped four elite tour events on his forehand (two at Mundaka and two at Teahupoâ€™o) so he was incredibly well-rounded. That said, itâ€™s become obvious that Bobby hasnâ€™t been happy for a while now, and we would never force anyone to do the tour if their heart wasnâ€™t in it.
I think itâ€™s important to note that the interview did cite that the changes to the tour were actually tabled and voted on by the surfers themselves – this is something that often gets lost on the fans and even some of the surfers. We, the ASP, act as stewards for the tour and do our best to guide the direction of it, but at the end of the day, the changes are voted on by the surfers themselves. I donâ€™t envy the job of the surfersâ€™ representatives, but I do know that they work tirelessly to ensure that every surferâ€™s voice is heard and Iâ€™m confident that they had reached out to and attempted to engage Bobby in discussion on these changes. Itâ€™s unfortunate that he feels misrepresented by the surfersâ€™ union in this matter.

As noted in the interview, Bobbyâ€™s gone through a negative period in his life over the past two years or so, and thatâ€™s certainly been evident in his results. He started 2010 very strong with back-to-back Equal 3rds on the Gold Coast and at Bells, but then only managed to make four heats throughout the remainder of the year. During that time, he did few if any Prime or Star events to back himself up, despite the ASP World Rankings and tour changes having been announced at the end of 2009. When the season started this year, he faced an uphill battle, but has managed show signs of improvement with a 13th at Bells and a 5th in Rio. However, as with 2010, he hasnâ€™t been able to produce a significant result in the Prime or Star events and still needed to record strong finishes in J-Bay, Tahiti and New York to ensure he remained with us after the September rotation. Itâ€™s disappointing that heâ€™s decided to quit instead of take a crack at it as Jeffreys and Tahiti are two of his strongest events, and with minimal effort, he could have been safe for the September rotation.

When allâ€™s said and done though, Bobby has been traveling the world nearly 15 years now and we absolutely respect his decision to want to stay home and have a family. We wish him nothing but luck in his future endeavors and weâ€™re thankful for the inspiration he gave and the performances he locked in while amongst the worldâ€™s elite. With his departure from the Billabong Pro Tahiti, Travis Logie will take his spot and it looks like weâ€™re going to have pumping surf for the waiting period. It will be awesome to see the worldâ€™s best surfers challenged with some heavy surf this coming week.

Agree with B.Howard, Bobby should realize that there are guys around the world who work back breaking labour on construction sites for 5 years, 10 hours a day, eating only potatoes to save money to go surf Supers or Chopes, crowded, for a week. Bobby had the oportunity to be paid to go to both places and be able to surf both spots with only one other person out. I’ve read that he is all about respect but his actions are directly disrepectful to all us hardworking kooks who would love to go to Tahiti, but probably never will. It is not really difficult to see why he has had problems maintaining support from a major sponsor. I’ll never buy FTW product after reading this article. Having said all this he definately seems more “real” than some of the Aussie and Brazilian contest machines who are currently on the WCT

Props for doing what he feels is right for his life, but I agree that it seems like he is a little star struck and not seeing the bigger picture. Do a couple years on tour, play the game and be set for life. Don’t miss your shot, its too good to pass up. Bobby doesn’t have the rep to sell like Dane and he will fade from memory quick if he keeps this attitude up.

It has always been the way for most non top 5 surfers to back up on the qs. The only thing that has changed is Bobbys age. He’s to old to be the contest animal and is blaming others for the position he is in. He is lucky to have any sponser because with an attitude like he has he would be hard pressed to hold down any job.

life is about injoying what ever you wish to do. you will always have surfing in your life. congrats on your wife and your new life! you were one of my favorites to watch on tour and i was always wishing you would win every contest. love your movie sections too, so much speed and style. i wish more people had the balls to stand up for what they believed in and maybe thats why i was always in your corner. i honestly think that is part of what is wrong with the world today. everyone is scared of being judged for being who they really are. your not and i find it inspiring. heart, honesty, and passion will get you to the top of any mountain. i wish the best for you in the future and hopÃ¨ to crack some laughs and share some waves with you some day.

Well Its obvious how his wife who obviously know him better than all of us if clearly unhappy with the reactions and decisions bobby has make recently. i do respect him cause i do think he’s a real man and doesn’t have to kiss anyones ass in order to be happy but i do feel he has disrespected a lot of people and also pretty sure he will regret all of this once he realizes he can’t make it back and he has lost everything. is really difficult to be at the top, step off, and then come back again. this is a decision for life.

Regretable response from ASP
I don’t know very much about Bobby Martinez, But The ASP media reps comments started well and then mr Prodan lost total credibility. when he says, ‘As noted in the interview, Bobbyâ€™s gone through a negative period in his life over the past two years or so, and thatâ€™s certainly been evident in his results. ‘ This sounds condescending. Kelly Slater, by his own account had negative years on the tour, even when he won. This didn’t affect his results. And WTF is this:, Mr. Prodan adds ‘to ensure he remained with us after the September rotation’, Mr Prodan makes the WTC sound like a club… (ensure he stayed with us)

Bobby you are PUNK ROCK MAN!!!! Right on for sticking to your guns and calling it just like you see it and feel it. If more guys speak up we might just have a new tour on our hands and wouldn’t that be rad. Be cool man…..

Yea right on dude…. we could call it the LLW Tour … Low Life Whingers . Imagine!, The contests would never finish because disputed heats would have to be re-run forever and they’d have to wait till the tide and waves were perfect. If Bobby and his cronies haven’t got the brains to realize the One World Tour Is fairer overall for EVERYBODY and not just for HIM, they wouldn’t even be able to work out the heat totals. You got the “PUNK” part right.

About 15 years ago I was at foodland on the N.Shore of Oahu. I was speaking with an ASP judge I met the night before at a closed party. During our conversation of surfing. He mentioned that Occy and Slater would be in the main event. I thought to myself that is odd to predict as the main event was still about three days out. Sure enough, Slater won against Occy in the main event. I knew from that day on the tour tour and the industry was a rigged commercial operation. I felt so duped by surfing. The billion dollar industry dictates the surf image and surf champ.

Great comments B. Howard and Madiba.
I’ve never known a whole lot about Bobby but I always liked him. Until now. His actions, his attitude and his words are disgusting and vulgar. The fact that he thinks it’s OK and normal for a 3-year old to be cursing is disturbing at best. Hopefully he gets some serious help before he has a family of his own or his wife decides to hold off having children with him.
This man may have a sweet heart but he has a very dark side and she knows it, now we all know it. Grow up, Bobby, you’re a role model. You have a chance to make the world a little bit better. Young kids look up to you and their parents can’t control that they follow you on Twitter or read your angry cursing rants. It’s so incredibly irresponsible to make the statement “they don’t have to let them follow me.”
You know, Bobby, for years men physically abused their wives and children. Since “that’s just us” does that make it OK? No, that’s the way we’ve “become” because of attitudes and mentalities like yours. You seem to think this stuff just happens and isn’t created by people. People do terrible things everyday yet we have to make a choice if we want do things because others do it or if we are going to hold ourselves to a higher standard. Can you imagine how ugly this world would be if we had a bunch of people running around doing whatever they wanted because someone else did it too?
You’re so blessed to be in the position you are in surfing the world’s most beautiful & exotic locations on your sponsors dime, getting paid well and being a role model. Yet you just don’t get it. Like someone else said this guy is going to have to go get a job someday and then “reality” is going to slap him right in the face. People with this kind of an attitude make me sick. What so many of us wouldn’t give just to be able to surf like him but to get paid to surf instead of going to our jobs everyday, grinding it out. Are you kidding me? Sure, every job has its negatives but that’s a Dream Job, dude. Wake up.
Get the chip off your shoulder, Bobby, and count your blessings…you’re at the grown ups table now. Try and do some good for the world. You should take a few lessons from Kelly Slater, the guy is pure class and no surfer gets pulled in more directions than he does yet he’s always respectful and gracious. For the hate you just spewed at the ASP Dave Prodan’s comments were respectful and showed great restraint like a mature adult something you obviously know nothing about.

Quite honestly the ASP Tour will be better off without Bobby Martinez and his bad attitude and I guarantee you the other pros are thinking the same thing. What a disgrace. Hope you saved your money, Bobby, because your 15 minutes are almost up.

@ John, great read and great points! As a parent I can not understand either how pro-athlete’s (even the surf ones) can not understand the responsibility of being a role model to young kids and it makes me sick! One day he will look at this decision (when he grows up) and realize what he took for granted!

Thanks for taking the time to write this, and I hope Bobby takes the time to read it… he needs to. I also used to like BM, but now I putt you in the same can with the like of Sunny Garcia….thug head ingrates… and while “badboy” crap sells, I think it just steers youth further towards this angry and dysfunctional craphole we’re creating in the US

the way you targeted bobby’s personalty and how he needs to change that to be a good parent was so not cool. as everyone knows everbody is different in some way and you shouldnt tell somebody they need to change and as bobby says in the interview nobodies perfect. there are some aspects of his lifestyle that i disagree on but i feel theres no need to bitch about it. i mean i’m sure if you made a personality story on yourself a number of people throughout the world would strongly disagree with your actions towards life. i agree with everyones views on the issue about bobby’s performances on argueing the tour. but to aim your disagreement at his lifestyle and personalty is just wrong.

jwall. The reason we have so many social problems is largely due to attitudes like yours. So you think an adult having no problem with a 3 year old cussing is none of your business? When you have a kid (which you obviously haven’t) you’ll find out it’s very much your business because you’re child will be surrounded by kids like this and the penny may drop. Utopia doesn’t exist and if people were held more accountable for their actions we wouldn’t have so many screw ups in this world.
John. Brilliant post, thank you.

You have to make sacrifices in life to grow… you think ‘the man’ has you down now…
Wait till your a 40 year old used car salesman and your moment has passed you by.
Your gonna be that guy telling the stories about the “what ifs”.
Take a year off, get your head on straight and come back stronger than ever.

F### ALL OF YOU HATERS BOBBY IS DOING WHAT HE NEEDS TO DO FOR HIMSELF, AND HIS FAMILY. IF YOU PEOPLE CANT RESPECT THAT THEN YOU HAVE NO RESPECT FOR YOURSELF, BECAUSE YOU WOULD DO WHAT YOU NEED TO DO TO MAKE YOU HAPPY. BOBBY RULES END OF STORY.

well said ADZ. Everyone has people at work that they dont like. Everyone has a boss that does stupid things and wont change. That’s the real reality. ASP is the same. He’ll figure that hard reality out when he gets a real job. But in Bobby’s defense; the world tour is kinda pathetic. The first 3 events were hideous. Especially the surf at snapper and Rio. That’s like having the Lakers play the Celtics with partially inflated balls, crooked rims, and no nets on the rim.

Damn. I still want to know Bobby’s opinion on the new urban contests. In fact, I thought that’s why he was so over it. Also, Bobby always had little trouble staying in the top 10 or 15. That’s why I thought he wouldn’t give two sh**s about the new format.

Good for him that he’s “over it” like the rest of the cool kids but really I think it’s more about the money thing cause if you’re not winning, and have no real sponsors then traveling to each of those destinations cost $$ out of pocket. Which must be a concern since he wants to start a family. I just don’t agree with bashing the industry that gave him his life and a job that’s unlike any other. Bobby, why don’t you roll down to Ciudad Juarez or Sinaloa right now and see what’s going on in the real world and what life could really be like before you start complaining. Especially since you’ve got that “vato” attitude in and out of the water, let’s see how hard you really are…

i think its interesting bobby brought up success in the surf industry is about blond hair and blue eyes. i think this needs to be brought up more. the surf industry is one of the most racist industries ever. this has to change. i think bobby really represents something special voicing his opinion about this and i think he deserves a bigger platform. in a way he is the cesar chavez, mlk of surfing!

i would love to see a blog or some literary platform to hear more of his voice.

Duke Kahanamoku, Gerry Lopez, Dane Kealoha, Eddie Aikau, Buffalo, serious Icons & brown brothers -dont forget! But the surf industry is based in Orange County, Calif. so what do you expect? The place where it’s still cool to drive a candy apple red convertible BMW with 1980’s blonde hair on your way to a Sarah Palin fund raiser. (that’s why their kids try to overcompensate with tattoos and look like gangsters) But they are the ones who pay for the surf industry and buy stupid Hurley t-shirts. So dont complain. Otherwise, the blonde devils wont have boards, nixon watches, leashes, videos to give you when they leave Puerto Escondido.

bobby is just straight-up about sh*t and that’s not for everybody. the same way certain people hate howard stern & millions love him (me being one of em). i don’t think it’s for “kids” but 13 year old + boys and girls are ready to listen to someone like bobby, etc. they are exposed to it anyways and hear that language and have to learn how to deal with it (unless your a lame parent and home school/shelter your kids from public/private schools). anyway, i like bobby and always have. he surfs insane and does his own deal, regardless of the crazy pressure. keep it going bobby….all you have to do is one thing, kill it when you surf! that will shut f-ers up.
later,
b
– *sorry we still edit some of the cursing here – thanks for posting*

Mate ,
surely throwing a singlet on and getting stand up shacks at chopes with crew hooting from the barrell is not a bad day at the office.
anyway the world is changing everyday and so all the best with your decision
live life to the full bro……and enjoy your family
Tone

I think Bobby has the best style on the whole WCT and should have been recognized by the judges years ago , accordingly. If Bobby decides to give up on a corrupt one world ranking system, then good for him. He knows he could win the whole thing at any given time, so thats why he is so frustrated with the state of things(politics). So all you fake as lame mother fuckin CEO’s take warning because Bobby has spoken the truth and the truth will always shine through all of the other bullshit that is going down!

What sticks out in my mind about Bobby, who always seemed like a humble guy, was when he got a couple calls in his heat he didn’t agree with and went off. It was obvious he lost the heat but he had a tantrum acting like there was some conspiracy against him. Its all ego that these kids think is some unique personality, bad examples as role models drops the world one more notch backwards in the progression of society.

Yes Bobby the world is full of evil and injustice. Life’s not fair and sometimes we have to put things into perspective. Of all the terrible things that are going on in the world you’ve chosen to combat the evil of Pro Surfing contests. Count your blessings and stop whining.

can’t wait till the articulate bobby martinez is 40 and a cashier at macdonalds. what a f’n idiot. i love all the people here that talk about how surfing is just a money making business. who do you think pays people like bobby m to live a damn good lifestyle riding waves.., that same business. you turn your back on that business and if you have been doing nothing since surfing since the age of 15 you got no more skills than a kid out of high school. guarantee 10 years down the road when he’s washed up, working a shitty 9 to 5, he’s going to be regretting this move

A-complain about asp and how shitty the waves, judging and tour are.
B-complain about how money grubbing the surf industry is.
C-bail channel islands – they dont work
D-get back on channel islands – they work insane
E-complain about how bad it is to get paid to surf
F-twitter a bunch of BS because you wont sit down for interviews face to face
G-would rather support ftw or twf whatever the f@&^& is, which is a lame ass company that benefits no one except a bunch of wannabee gangsters and anyone that can start a fight or hang their over-sized pants by their knees. Rather than yes a money grubbing surf company which at most if not all support surf rider, promote a greener and cleaner environment and are supportive of surf, skate and action sports bringing happiness and a chance for people to make a living off of what they love to do..
H-brags about his 3 year old cussing
I-Scared of up and coming rippers taking him down. So complains about the system.
J-Has never appreciated how he may have gotten to where he is
K-would rather surf NY slop and support a “no comment” company instead of: eating tuna and rice every day, surfing perfect waves in warm water with the best surfers in the world, in the middle of the beautiful peaceful pacific. And… have the nerve to pay 5k to miss it, and then of course complain about it.

Bobby started when he was young as many athletes do there are a few things many miss out on. Education is the main one!Doesn’t have to be in the form of a diploma, or letter, just something to get them out of the immaturity that follows many into their 30’s. Bobby isn’t the only one. You would think traveling the world would give Bobby and many touring pro’s and amateurs at least a hint of how much they should be thanking every person that even considered to help, support, pay, or be a fan of theirs. Many don’t care, and on top of that they take it for granted, failing to get anything out of surfing whether it be spiritual or financial. Surfers who built this system (ASP) over generations breaking down stereotypes and barriers, something that Bobby owes his life to otherwise he would have nothing and be nothing but a gang-banger, get thrown under the bus because they try to improve the tour, good job or bad they are trying, and WORKING, its almost a joke to hear someone even attempt to complain if all they do is use and want.

Surfing is hands down the greatest sport, hobby, drug, or addiction, known to man. If Bobby sucked it up and matured his mind a bit, he may become someone we would remember for generation, instead his immaturity, bitterness and complete lack of class and sympathy have….. Bobby who?

I hate to see he replies mentioning how ungrateful Bobby is. EVERYONE is ungrateful…The reason you people see Bobby as ungrateful for the job he has, is you’re are ungrateful for the one you have. A REAL JOB is far better than starving in Ethiopia. But instead of recognizing that you make your work which allows you to put food on your table and a roof over your head sound SO HORRIBLE, putting pro surfing on this pedastool. I hate this status quo mentality…like you’re supposed to dislike you’re work. That’s crap. You can always switch your job. If you have an ass boss get a new job. NOBODY is forcing you to stay where you’re at. You like your fancy ride, your nice 4 bedroom house and your weekly 500 dollar excursions to WholeFoods sooo much that you put up with your crappy boss…those arent necessities man. You got kids to feed, whose choice was it to start a family-YOURS!!!! Stop your bitching! Let people be themselves and chiming in with your worthless 2 cents…NOBODY CARES. Right on for Bobby. He’s right, nobody understands the two tour system. Pros should get an entire year on the CT.

WHAAAAAA!!!! I love bobby but what a whinny little baby. The tour provides the life style he loves. Just compete and beat those bastards. Stick it out for a few more years and stack that loot away. Nothing sucks more when your money runs out. Use your talents now before it’s to late.

Wahhh! I have to travel to surf perfect waves. Wahhh! Hey Bobby – get over yourself, you spoiled little B^^^H! I’ve seen you rip OB, but this interview is total BS. Join me Monday through Friday at my software job in Silicone Valley and I’ll show you something to bitch about, you little spoiled douche!

all you haters are really just pissed cause you’re slaves to the system, and pissed about your own lives. stop whinning, quit your cush silicone valley bullsh*t jobs, sell your BMW SUVs and your trendy clothes and go surf. oh wait, you can’t…..you won’t….. f*uck yeah bobby – free surf, spend time with your family, and enjoy life like the rest of these douches wish they could. remember what surfing is about – all you kooks can think about is $$ and waterproof iphones. bobby da man! chee hee!!

mbshawaii, LOL! I have a fantastic job that fuels my surf trips to Indo, central America, all over the beautiful California coast. Work enables me to live 10 blocks from the beach in a sick house and support my family. Don’t care about trendy clothes or fancy cars. I drive a 2005 Honda Civic, hahaha and don’t own an iPhone! My point was that if Bobby came to my workplace, he’d realize very quickly how good he has it. Your stereotypes are in your head, mbshawaii. Have fun on your Pacific Odyssey. I’m saving up for my own adventure.

Exactly!!! All my old “cool friends” who moaned about the the system and it’s slaves and “keeping it real” have grown up and discovered they can’t afford to go on surf trips anymore., Yea hardcore dudes! I’m off to Hossegor next month for my annual Eurotrip. My son’s old enough to come for the first time so we’re both stoked.. Incredible surfers surfing monster beach break barrels, beautiful women,,food and culture. Where did it all go so wrong? Keeping it real eh?

Last time I checked, it was Bobby doing all the whining. I guess he’s gonna be the one giving up his iPhone, BMW and trendy clothes because people are gonna stop looking at his Twitter page now that he has quit, and won’t have anything else to bitch about. Have fun “free surfing” with your new gangsta-surf sponsor….LOL!

I can appreciate Bobby’s point of view re. the direction the ASP has taken, in fact, I hadn’t thought about many of the things he brought up about the mid-year cut or the mis-matching of talents. It’s just sad that most of the time there is so much negativity and anger in Bobby’s stance, that most people never get to hear what he really has to say. Certainly, the complexities are not going to come through in 140 characters or less, especially if you add the cussing. I hope his decision to leave the tour is temporary as the tour needs his brand of power surfing more than ever, and he still has a lot of wins left in him (not to mention that he’s been a major point of pride for us goofies). If he’d channel his frustration in the right direction he’d probably be happier for it. Better said than done, I’m sure. I don’t care where you’re from though, well-articulated words and constructive criticism achieve far more than cuss words and flying off the handle will ever do. I hope for Bobby that he will be happier with the direction he’s chosen for himself. But if he ever comes back on tour, I’m sure they’ll be able to use his surfing and his ideas, as long as he has the patience and the foresight to see them through.